Anser Innovation has raised $1.5 million from investors as it prepares to launch its first product, PetChatz, a videophone that links pets and their owners.

Anser is a Burnsville-based technology company developing Internet-based software and hardware to enhance remote communications. It secured backing from angel investors based in Minnesota as well as throughout the nation. The company raised $1 million investment round from angel investors in fall 2012.

The funding will support the spring 2014 launch of PetChatz, lets owners use a smartphone or other Internet-enabled device to see and talk to their dogs and other pets.

"This is a very exciting and significant time for Anser as we ready the launch of our debut pet product and go deeper into development on our healthcare line," CEO Lisa Lavin said in a prepared statement.

"We appreciate the Life Science Alley team, the Minnesota Angel Network and the Minnesota Cup experience for the expertise, tools and connections they provided in helping us achieve this milestone."

Lavin, who has 20 years' experience in commercializing health care and animal care products, says the technology one day can assist the elderly and dependent children. Lavin is a 2012 graduate of the entrepreneur education and certification program created by the Minnesota Angel Network.

The PetChatz system, available for pre-order, has attracted buzz in the pet trade and technology media. In addition, Anser is working on a remote medication-management system for elders and other populations.

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